Why You Should Consider Getting Your Dog a Raw Food Diet

Dr. Ian Billinghurst, a veterinarian from Australia, has proposed a feeding program for dogs which completely consists of raw meat, bones, vegetables and fruits. It is referred to with the acronym BARF, which initially stood for "Bones and Raw Food", then eventually "Biologically Appropriate Food". The latter meaning came from the idea that a raw diet for dogs is best for their digestive system and overall health, because before dogs were domesticated their ancestors used to eat raw meat in the wild.

Dog owners who adopted this program found themselves with pets who sported glossier coats, cleaner teeth, fresher breath, smaller stools, decreased shedding, and overall improved health. Also, some owners tried giving a raw diet when their pets were sick or feeling unwell. They noticed a speedy recovery in their dogs' health. This has led several people to think, "If a raw dieteffectively improves their health when they're sick, why not give them the same diet even when they're in the pink of health?"

Most people who are skeptical about raw feeding base their objections that 1) raw meat might contain bacteria such as Salmonella and E. Coli, 2) raw bones could cause choking, break teeth and cause internal injury, and 3) a raw diet might not contain the right balance of nutrients that dogs need.

However, a raw diet for dogs is not as unsafe and unhealthy as these issues purport it to be. Firstly, raw meat could indeed contain bacteria, but it is also important to remember that the digestive system of dogs is built differently (compared to humans'). Theirs contain particular enzymes and acids that are intended to deal with these bacteria. Next, it is also the duty of the dog owner to provide meat which came from a trusted source. You should also handle meat properly. Thaw out a piece of meat which is just enough for one meal. Do not save leftover meat for later.

Secondly, cooked bones are actually more dangerous than raw bones because they splinter easily and could cause choking and internal damage. Raw bones can make your dog's teeth stronger as it continuously grinds against the hard bone, and at the same time it cleans those teeth. If your pet has just started on a raw diet for dogs, crush raw bones with a hammer first, or with a meat grinder. Raw bones are an excellent source of calcium for your dog.

Lastly, to ensure that your dog receives the right amount of nutrients, be creative and vary his food. Dogs are not as strict carnivores as most of us believe them to be. In fact, cats are more picky and carnivorous when it comes to food. Your dog can hands fresh sliced vegetables and fruits, and even yogurt. Pumpkins for example are good for their system and eggs are a good source of calcium, aside from raw bones.

This news article is brought to you by SAVING MONEY - where latest news are our top priority.